Photo Credit: Jon Tyson
Soccer fans mourn the loss of a legend at age 82. Pelé’s regarded as one of the greatest soccer players of all time.
Thousands lined the streets to bid farewell as the procession made its way to Memorial Necrópole Ecumênica cemetery for a private family funeral. Pelé’s survived by his wife, kids, siblings, and 100-year-old mother.
He was born October 23, 1940, Edson Arantes do Nascimento, but is known by his one-word name Pelé (pronounced Peh-Lay). Pelé started playing at 15 and went on to gain global fame, playing in three World Cups in 1958, 1962, and 1970. He was an icon at home and abroad and was fondly called ‘O Rei’ (the king). He played for Cosmos to help popularize soccer in the United States.
He was a source of hope for black players at home in Brazil and globally.
